Actor Amol Parashar, in an interview with The Daily Guardian, looks back at the year 2020 and the lessons we can—and should—learn and apply in 2021. Excerpts:
Q. When you look back at the year gone by, how was 2020 for you?
A. In one word: Unexpected. We all experienced things that nobody could have guessed at the beginning of the year. I feel lucky that for me personally, it went smoother than it did for most people. When faced with new circumstances, you discover new things about yourself and the world. So I would look at this past year as a time of new learnings.
Q. What was a lockdown learning for you?
A. It’s quite basic actually, but I learnt the importance of loved ones and the importance of effort that goes into building and sustaining real bonds. I also tried using the time at learning some new skills, so I started learning the guitar which had been on my mind for a long time.
Q. What did you miss the most doing this year and why?
A. I didn’t really miss anything. I usually adjust to new situations and circumstances in a short time. I did miss seeing my parents though for all those months when we couldn’t travel to see each other and I knew they were dealing with this situation in another city on their own.
Q. Professionally, how was the year for you?
A. Mostly free (smiles). I think I got a much needed break to work on myself and find new facets to my own personality.
Q. What was the lowest moment for you this year?
A. I can’t immediately recall anything personal worth sharing. I remember the few days after Sushant’s tragic passing were very weird. It took me a few days and a lot of effort to bring my mind back on track.
Q. What was the best moment for you this year?
A. Again, I have nothing that I can immediately recall worth sharing. I made some strong bonds and was able to spend quality time with loved ones. That seemed enough.
Q. What do you believe will change for the entertainment industry going ahead after this year?
A. I don’t know how long lasting these changes will be. The theatres have suffered and OTTs have gained traction. This would have happened slowly and gradually but because of the lockdown it all happened very suddenly. Now I think the balance will be slowly restored as and when things go back to normal.
Q. How do you see the OTT boom in India? Do you believe the digital medium is here to stay and how will it change things for you?
A. Oh yes. OTT is here to stay, no doubt about that. In fact, the film and television business will adapt to the disruptions that OTT will bring to the table. It has already changed things for me by giving me all these opportunities to showcase my skills and learn at the same time. I am grateful to OTT for what I have today.
Q. What are your hopes for 2021?
A. The first and foremost hope is that we as a society find a sustainable solution to the pandemic and things go back to normal as soon as possible. Second, if there are lessons that we have learnt personally and socially from this situation, we should make sure we don’t forget them when things become ‘normal’ again.
Personally, I’ll hope and attempt to squeeze in more work, more love, more learnings, more reading and writing, more money and more fun this year. I want it all and don’t hurt to wish it all.